The Complete Stories of Anton Chekhov, Vol. 1: 1882–1885

A Russian author, playwright, and physician, Anton Chekhov is widely considered one of the best short-story writers of all time. Having influenced such writers as Ernest Hemingway, Raymond Carver, and James Joyce, Chekhov’s stories are often noted for their stream-of-consciousness style and their vast number.

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A Russian author, playwright, and physician, Anton Chekhov is widely considered one of the best short-story writers of all time. Having influenced such writers as Ernest Hemingway, Raymond Carver, and James Joyce, Chekhov’s stories are often noted for their stream-of-consciousness style and their vast number. Raymond Carver once said, “It is not only the immense number of stories he wrote—for few, if any, writers have ever done more—it is the awesome frequency with which he produced masterpieces, stories that shrive us as well as delight and move us, that lay bare our emotions in ways only true art can accomplish.”

These stories are absolute gems. In each one Chekhov hilariously (and not without compassion) uncovers the absurdity of some common human foible. Anthony Heald delivers a stellar performance. His various character voices, paired with Chekhov's writing, have made me laugh out loud countless times. Thanks to both of these gentlemen for such an enjoyable listen!

One day I will learn. I always expect the Russian authors to be dry and intellectual. They always surprise me by their warmth and life. These short stories by Chekhov reveal many facets of the human character in dramatic contrast. I have a warning though. Don't try to listen to them in long sittings. These are like candy and should only be taken a few at a time. There is too much to ponder in each story to pay attention to subsequent ones properly.

This was my first experience with stories by Anton Chekhov and I'm happy to report I was not disappointed. His stories make you think, not in a laborious way but in a way that pulls one side of your mouth up in a sly way. I've already ordered volume 2! The narrator was superb. My favorite story was probably the looking glass.

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